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'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.' - author Jackie French

Saturday, 23 November 2013

Review: Smash - Trial by Fire

Can an ordinary boy gain superpowers? Ten-year-old Andrew’s favourite superhero is Defender, and daydreams of being like just like him. One day something happens that means Andrew might get his wish to be super fast, super strong, and able to fly.

When Defender falls victim to one force he can’t repel, Andrew is in the right place at the right time - or maybe it will turn out to be the wrong place at the wrong time.
Andrew accidentally inherits Defender’s super powers and has to learn how to use them - birds can be quite inconvenient when you are trying to get the hang of flying. Who killed Defender and will they come after Andrew when they discover a young boy has gained his much sought after superpowers?

Smash is a comic book collaboration between brothers Chris Bolton and Kyle Bolton, and began as a free webcomic. Switching between Andrew’s normal life and that of his new alter ego - soon dubbed Smash by the media - the story and its smooth, clean artwork are classic comic book style, and easy to read.

There’s something appealing about Andrew in his homemade superhero costume - hooded cape, belt, big boots and goggles - and as any true superhero should, he dodges baddies and fights to save the day. Smash: Trial By Fire is book one in this graphic novel series which is marketed at a broad age range, and is all around fun for L-plate superheroes in waiting.